Overall, the Cubs’ rotation has posted a 4.33 ERA in 2026, ranking 21st among all MLB clubs. Regulars Edward Cabrera, Jameson Taillon, and Ben Brown have spent time on the injured list, contributing to the rotation’s instability. As a result, team president Jed Hoyer is likely to add another pitcher in the coming days, with the Cubs potentially parting with a key player or two to facilitate a deal.
Reports indicate that versatile prospect Pedro Ramirez could be used as trade value. He is viewed as a natural fit for a trade because he is blocked at infield positions by established players. Chicago has MLB talent available to move, and Ramirez does not have a direct path to a starting role with the Cubs given existing incumbents at second and third base. Nico Hoerner and Alex Bregman are entrenched at those spots, and Dansby Swanson holds shortstop through 2029.
Ramirez has risen through the Cubs’ prospect rankings, climbing from previously being ranked as the 22nd-best Cubs prospect in 2023 to 18th in 2025. The infielder has a track record of producing solid batting lines at multiple levels. In 2025, he slashed .280/.346/.386 across 129 games with Double-A Knoxville. Earlier this year, Ramirez posted a strong start with Triple-A Iowa, slashing .312/.395/.547 in 43 games while splitting time between second and third base. His performance earned him a promotion to the majors in May.
Trading Ramirez at age 22 would carry risk, as he could develop into a regular MLB contributor in the future. However, the Cubs may decide that a move for a proven veteran starter justifies parting with promising prospects. If the Cubs pursue a top pitcher, they will likely need to assemble an attractive package, potentially including Ramirez, to entice other clubs.
With many teams seeking starting pitching as the trade deadline approaches, Chicago’s management will need to balance immediate needs with long-term development. Ramirez’s recent .083 batting average over his last seven games might also factor into decisions, but his overall upside remains a consideration in any trade scenario. As the deadline nears, the Cubs will weigh options to bolster the rotation while ensuring that any move aligns with their broader organizational goals.
